Question 1

What Are the Core Objectives of the Ackermann-Froebel Enrichment Program (AFEP)?

Accepted Answer

AFEP’s core objective is to cultivate cognitive and emotional prowess and resilience. The program is inspired by Samurai valour, emphasizing excellence guided by strong ethical and moral values, discipline, purpose, and integrity.

Question 2

Who is the AFEP Program For?

Accepted Answer

AFEP is designed for children, youth, adult women, and seniors. The program supports lifelong learning, with projects and activities adapted to meet the developmental and emotional needs of each participant group.

Question 3

How Are Cognitive and Emotional Skills Cultivated?

Accepted Answer

Skills are cultivated through project-based experiential learning grounded in the Ackermann Whole-Child/person philosophy and Froebel’s discovery-based approach. Participants learn through hands-on projects, reflection, inquiry, and guided discussion.

Question 4

What is the Ackermann Philosophy?

Accepted Answer

The Ackermann philosophy emphasizes whole-child/person development, integrating cognitive, emotional, social, and moral growth.

Question 5

What is the Froebel Philosophy?

Accepted Answer

The Froebel philosophy focuses on learning through discovery, creativity, and meaningful engagement with the world. 
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Question 6

What Critical Skills Does AFEP Aim to Develop?

Accepted Answer

AFEP supports the development of:
Critical thinking and analysis for decision making
Reflection and self-awareness
Confidence and emotional regulation
Leadership and communication
These skills are cultivated through Socratic exploration and Stoic reflection embedded throughout the program.

Question 7

What is the Nature of the AFEP Projects?

Accepted Answer

AFEP projects are inspired by Japanese culture and philosophy, emphasizing discipline, mindfulness, craftsmanship, resilience, and purpose. Please visit our Curriculum page for examples.

Question 8

What Content Guides the Projects?

Accepted Answer

Project content is interdisciplinary and may include, but is not limited to:
Sciences and scientific inquiry
Scientists, innovators, and pioneers
Astronomy and exploration
Health and medical literacy
Political systems and governance
Technology and artificial intelligence
Art, music, and creative expression
Nature and environmental learning
Culinary arts and cultural traditions
Community leadership and entrepreneurship
All content is age-appropriate and adapted for each cohort.

Question 9

What Are the Focus Areas in Cognitive and Emotional Strength?

Accepted Answer

Focus areas include resilience, confidence, ethical reasoning, emotional awareness, leadership development, and personal responsibility. Please refer to the Program Overview or Curriculum pages for further details.

Question 10

What is the Duration of the Program?

Accepted Answer

The program is designed as a 12-month enrichment experience.
Participants progress at their own pace, recognizing that learning and development vary among individuals.

Question 11

How are Outcomes Measured?

Accepted Answer

Progress is measured using AFEP’s proprietary Michi Compass, a reflective tool designed to track cognitive and emotional growth over time.

Question 12

How is the Michi Compass Used?

Accepted Answer

Training is provided for participants.
For child and youth participants, parents or guardians are also trained to support reflection and progress tracking at home.

Question 13

Is the Class a Cell-Free Zone?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely no cell phones permitted for the duration of the class. Parents/guardians accompanying children participants are also not permitted to use cell phones for the duration of the class in an attempt to support the participant.

Question 14

Can a Participant Fail the Program?

Accepted Answer

No. AFEP is not designed to measure success or failure, but to support growth, reflection, and continuous progress.

Question 15

Why is a Parent or Guardian Encouraged to Accompany a Child Participant?

Accepted Answer

Parents and guardians are encouraged to participate to help reinforce concepts at home, strengthen reflection practices, and support continuity beyond the classroom.

Question 16

Are Programs Delivered in Person?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All AFEP programs are delivered in person.

Question 17

Are Virtual Options Available?

Accepted Answer

Virtual options are not available at this time.

Question 18

How Often Are Classes Offered?

Accepted Answer

Classes are offered once per week.

Question 19

What is the Duration of Each Class?

Accepted Answer

Each class is approximately 1.5 hours in length.

Question 20

Where are Classes Currently Held?

Accepted Answer

Classes are currently held at The Lantern in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.

Question 21

How Do I Enroll in the Program?

Accepted Answer

To begin enrollment, please complete the Pre-Assessment Form under the Forms tab. Once reviewed, the AFEP team will contact you with the next steps.

Question 22

Are Project Supplies Provided?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All core project materials are provided. Participants may occasionally be asked to bring personal items, depending on the activity.

Ackermann-Froebel
Enrichment Program

(AFEP)

Inspiring Hearts | Strengthening Characters | Celebrating Achievements | Nurturing Resilience

AFEP Frequently Asked Questions